Gudja, Malta

With a population of just 3,483, Gudja is a sleepy Maltese village that's a far cry from the bustling capital of Valletta. While the area has been inhabited since prehistoric times, the modern center only really developed during the British colonial period. The tradeoff for this historical charm is a persistent bureaucratic headache - the local government is made up of just five elected councilors, and the village's boundaries have shifted numerous times over the centuries. Still, Gudja offers a glimpse of authentic Maltese life away from the tourist hordes, making it an appealing option for those seeking a slower pace.